Inflammation may be the prime cause behind Autism according to a recent study. Conducted by Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, the brains of eight children who had autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were analysed to determine the cause.
Scientists found that the parts of children’s brains crucial to working memory and attention – the areas of the brain impaired in people with autism – had unusually high levels of a molecule that triggers inflammation.
Symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome can range from mild to severe, and the condition is usually diagnosed after age two, when children exhibit signs of reduced eye contact, or not responding to their name or are able to perform repetitive movements. Boys are also more than four times more likely to have the condition than girls.
Autism – Which Part Of Brain Is Affected?
Upon analysing the deceased brains of children with ASD, the results showed those with ASD has increased numbers of a protein known as interleukin-18 (IL-18). This was found in the amygdala, a part of the brain that deals with detecting fear and an area known as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. This is involved in cognitive skills including working memory, attention and reward evaluation.
Can Autism Be Cured?
The study looked at the brains of 16 deceased male caucasian children and was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Children were between 3 and 14 years old.
Researchers noted that there were increased numbers of anti-inflammatory proteins, although not as many as IL-37. They believe there are drugs that can be used to decrease the amount of IL-18 in the brain.
Authors of the study believe there is increasing evidence that supports immune dysfunction presence and inflammation in children’s brains who have ASD.
All of this highlights how IL-37 plays an important role in inhibiting inflammation, along with supporting IL37 development as a potential ASD treatment.
What This Important Study Reveals
The Autism study reveals how inflammation is potentially the prime cause behind the disorder. Yet scientists simply suggest that medications are an effective treatment for ASD. What they fail to highlight however are the unwanted side-effects often associated with taking these kinds of medications.
Some of the undesirable side affects reported in children taking autism medication drugs include drowsiness, hormonal changes, and weight gain from an increased appetite. In rare cases it can also cause involuntary movements.
Natural Solutions For Autism
If inflammation is the main cause of behavioural disorders such as autism, it makes sense to target this first. Following a healthy diet and lifestyle with no starchy carbs or sugars is essential for getting the inflammation under control.
A ketogenic and gluten-free diet has been found to improve symptoms of Autism behaviour. [1] A ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, moderate protein and high-fat lifestyle. This diet can keep blood sugar levels stable and inflammation low in the body.
Another way to keep inflammation low is to take Serrapeptase on a regular basis. As a naturally occurring proteolytic enzyme, Serraeptase can safely dissolve inflammation and dead scar tissue in the body, excreting it via the kidneys or liver.
Serrapeptase is a safe solution for anyone looking to relieve inflammation and possibly find improvements in their autism behavioural symptoms. Studies also support that Zinc suppplements may possibly reverse this condition according to researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine.This is no surprise given that zinc plays an essential role in supporting your immune system, fighting off any invading bacteria or viruses.
Taking high-quality probiotics may also support and provide optimal function and support for the immune system. Numerous studies on autism and the digestive system suggest that when it is managed correctly, symptoms of autism can improve. [2]
Recommended Product Examples
Serranol™ – Contains 160,000IU of Serrapeptase and Curcuminx4000 for anti-inflammatory relief. Also contains Ecklonia Cava Extract and Vitamin D3. Serrapeptase can cross the blood-brain barrier providing extra support. Start with 1 capsule a day and monitor closely. Very small children can take ½ capsule mixed with a little food. Available from Good Health Naturally.
BrainPower™: Delivers Lipsomal Curcumin and Resveratrol for natural anti-inflammatory protection that has been shown to increase nutrient blood serum levels significantly. Non-GMO. Take 1/2 tsp daily. Available from Good Health Naturally.
Olive Leaf with Zinc – Contains a powerful blend of Olive Leaf and Zinc that supports the daily immune system against colds, flu and yeast. Proven antiviral and antioxidant protection to give strengthening nutrients where it’s missing in the body. Very small children can take ½ capsule mixed with a little food. Available from Good Health Naturally.
Prescript-Biotics – Contains Bio-Identical SBO Probiotics for gut support, immunity and overall health. Start with 1 capsule a day and monitor closely. Very small children can take ½ capsule mixed with a little food. Available from Good Health Naturally.
